Uptmor
chosen to tour Air Force BaseNancy Uptmor, the Career Development Instructor at Prairie High School,
was selected by the United States Air Force to be a participant in the
2006 Distinguished Educator Tour in San Antonio, Texas. Twenty-nine counselors, instructors, and vice principals from
across the entire nation arrived at Randolph Air Force Base on Tuesday,
February 21st. During the next three days their “mission” was to
learn about the Air Force, experience basic training through the eyes of
the new recruits and graduates, and to become knowledgeable about the educational
opportunities available through the Air Force and other military branches.
Although the educators were addressed by several Colonels and Generals,
the one that impressed them the most was Brig. General Mary Kay Hertog,
the top commander at Lackland Air Force Base. She sent a powerful message
regarding the outstanding opportunities for women in the Air Force.
In addition to informational briefings, the participants in the tour
were given the opportunity to speak to new recruits as they were issued
their clothing and received haircuts. Participants were able to take
pictures and interview the trainees after watching them maneuver through
field training exercises and the chemical warfare instruction.
The educators viewed students during classes, and toured the various
technical training squadrons including bomb squads, Para rescue, and camp
protection systems that use advanced laser and heat sensor technologies.
They were also given the opportunity to question a panel of first-term
Airmen and junior officers. The highlight of the tour was attending
the military basic training graduation ceremony. The tour also gave
everyone the opportunity to exchange educational insights especially in
the areas of curriculum, state testing, and career development.